Brighten up a south-facing room

To balance the room’s weak light, choose warm, pale shades for the walls, such as duck egg blue, primrose yellow or baby pink. Then use a darker shade of one these hues to create a statement paint effect, like a feature wall or panel. For example, you could try using a fresh green colour such as eau de Nil for the majority of the space and then paint one wall in rich teal.

When natural sunlight is poor, you need to be a lot more creative with electric light. Adding layers of light and having control over each layer is the key to creating a warm and cosy atmosphere. Use a central ceiling light with enough wattage to do tasks like cleaning and cooking and add a second layer with floor lamps or concealed lighting under shelves and cupboards. Don’t forget mirrors – these will do wonders to help bounce light around the room.